Isomers

Definition

Isomers are molecules with the same molecular formula but different structures or spatial arrangements. These variations lead to different physical and chemical properties.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Isomers can be broadly classified into structural isomers and stereoisomers.
2. Structural isomers differ in the connectivity of their atoms.
3. Stereoisomers have the same connectivity but differ in the spatial arrangement of atoms.
4. Enantiomers are a type of stereoisomer that are non-superimposable mirror images of each other.
5. Cis-trans isomerism (or geometric isomerism) occurs due to restricted rotation around a double bond or ring structure.

Review Questions

• What distinguishes structural isomers from stereoisomers?
• Describe how enantiomers relate to each other.
• Explain the significance of cis-trans isomerism in biological molecules.

Related terms

structural_isomer: Isomers that differ in the connectivity between atoms within a molecule

stereoisomer: Isomers with the same sequence of bonded atoms but different three-dimensional orientations

enantiomer: A type of stereoisomer where two molecules are non-superimposable mirror images of each other